Merry Christmas all the way to hodgepodge land!

Last Hodgepodge for me in 2015. 

1. What's your biggest 'first world' problem?
When the network connection goes down at work and I can't get to my files. I'll just be sitting around doing nothing without those files.

2. Each year Time Magazine names a 'Person of the Year', someone who has 'for better or worse...done the most to influence the events of the year.' It was recently announced they've named Angela Merkel Person of the Year for 2015. You can read more about this year's selection here. Your thoughts? If you were in charge, who would you declare Person of the Year?

I think its a fine choice. She really is a powerful woman (women power!). It could have been George Lucas for creating the Star Wars saga. After all the hoopla the last few months with the new movie coming out.

3. Do you have a nativity set in your home? If so share it's history and how you display the pieces.

I don't have a nativity set and I keep looking for one because I really want one. But they all seem too big or too small or too childlike.

4. Do you make an extra effort to give back in some way during the holiday season? How do you encourage those who need encouragement this time of year?

We adopt a couple of foster kids to buy gifts for. Our county had over 800 children in foster care. Can you imagine that?

5. Who is your favorite person to shop for? Why?

Easy question...Whitney. She is so easy to buy for, I really could go crazy.

6. What's the last delicious thing you ate?

Risotto I made on Sunday night. Probably the best batch I've ever made.

7. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is________________.

Being kind and generous with your time.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Merry Christmas everyone!

December Hodgepodge

Look at this. I'm actually scheduling a blog post! Joyce is so good in putting out questions, I should be good and answer them!




1. Did you watch The Charlie Brown Christmas special Monday night? Who's your favorite Peanuts character and why?

We watched both the anniversary show and the annual Charlie Brown Christmas special. It's an annual tradition for us. I've always said I'm a Lucy but Snoopy is my favorite.


"Most psychiatrists agree that sitting in a pumpkin patch is excellent therapy for a troubled mind."~Linus

Would you agree?

I think a pumpkin patch sounds kind of cold so I wouldn't suggest this as a relief for a troubled mind.

2. Describe a sound from your childhood. What does this sound bring to mind?

I really don't have any sounds I associate with childhood.

3. You've won a trip to a winter wonderland...would that excite you? Which one of the following would you most want to experience (or which one would you dislike the least)-see the Aurora Borealis in Norway, stay in Sweden's Ice Hotel, go dogsledding in Lapland Finland, take a winter wildlife safari in Yellowstone or celebrate Winter Carnival in Quebec?

While I would love dogsledding, I would choose the Aurora Borealis simply because you can't get it just anywhere and it is spectacular.

4. Who or what keeps you humble?

Belief in God as a higher power and knowing that I am unable to control things.

5. What part of preparing for Christmas do you like the most? Explain.

Enjoying Christmas lights. There is something serene about sitting in a dark room with just Christmas lights on.

6. Gingerbread-yay or nay? Is making a gingerbread house part of your family holiday tradition?

I'm not a huge gingerbread fan. I think we made one or two houses but only from a kit.

7. What's one thing you want to start, do, or complete before the calendar rolls into a new year?

I'd like to get plans for my first three trips of 2016 sorted out.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I finished my third 5K of 2015 on Thanksgiving morning. It was a rainy day but thankfully 60 degrees. The next day was rainy and 33. I doubt I would have done it that day.

After the race was finished. Just a tad bit wet!

Hodgepodge - This Means I'm Still Kicking!

So it's been six months since I last wrote. I'm still alive and kicking. More later about what has happened during this time.

1. What's surprised you most about your life, or about life in general?

That I'm still in Oklahoma. I came her to go to college more than 30 years ago and I've never moved. Since I moved so much while a child I never imagined I would live in one place my whole adult life.

2. Among others, these ten words were added to the Oxford English Dictionary this year...awesomesauce, beer o'clock, brain fart, buttdial, cat cafe (apparently this is a real thing), fatberg (gross-read the definition here), fat shame, hangry,Mx (gender neutral), and skippable.

Your thoughts? In looking over the list, which word do you find most ridiculous? Which word would you never in a million years say out loud? Which word would you be most likely to use in conversation?

Well I've been known to use awesomesauce, buttdial and brain fart before. Ridiculous would be fatberg.

3. Do you like gravy? Is there a food you'd rather not eat unless it comes with gravy? Do you make your own or buy the canned or store-made variety? Turkey and gravy, sausage gravy, mashed potatoes and gravy, country ham and red eye gravy, biscuits and chocolate gravy, pot roast and gravy...which one on the list is your favorite?

I love gravy on mashed potatoes. We always make from scratch for Thanksgiving (that's Dan's job).

4. Do you have a plan? Do you need a plan? Have you ever had a plan fall into a trillion pieces? Explain.

I think you always need a plan but need to be flexible on it. Many a planned vacation can come apart if you aren't flexible.

5. November 19 is National Play Monopoly Day. Do you own the original or some version of the game? Do you enjoy playing Monopoly? How likely is it you'll play a game of Monopoly on November 19th? Ever been to Atlantic City? Ever taken a ride on a railroad? Is parking in your town free? Last thing you took a chance on?

Monopoly is not a favorite game of mine. Which is funny since I work with money. I've always found that if you don't compromise on trading properties you can never get ahead in that one so I don't like playing. We have the original game. I've never been to Atlantic City. Only railroad I've been on was the one in Alaska.

6. A song you like that has the word (or some form of the word) thanks in the title, lyrics, or meaning?

I'm terrible on lyrics and titles so nothing comes to mind.

7. In keeping with this month's theme of gratitude....what is something you're taking for granted that when you stop and think about it, you're grateful for?

My health.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

So six months and so much to write about. I hope that I can do a big wrap up and catch people up. Please know that I do read all your blogs still. I have problems when I make comments because I get lots of returned email but I love reading them.

A Late Hodgepodge

I wasn't going to do it but then it just called out to me and said "Fill Me In" so I'm filling it in. :)

1. Did you do anything 'memorable' this past weekend?
We watched the sport of weather forecasting. You didn't know that is a sport? Here in Oklahoma it sure is when the weather gets bad. It is a race for which tv station can show a tornado first.

2. Ronald Reagan is quoted as saying-


"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same."


Your thoughts? Do you somehow acknowledge and appreciate the freedoms you enjoy? Did your upbringing contribute to that sense of appreciation? If you're a parent, are there specific things you do to pass on this sense of responsibility and appreciation to your own children in regard to the freedoms they enjoy?


I think we take freedom for granted in the USA. But it is certainly something that you shouldn't because it can all change on a dime.

3. Loudest noise you've ever heard?

Lightning strike really close to the house.

4. What was the last thing you ate that might be considered 'junk food'? Did you enjoy it?

I had some Reese's peanut butter cups this afternoon that someone brought me as a bribe to help them with a proposal. They were tasty and the bribe helped.

5. When was the last time you were somewhere the crowd felt 'packed in like sardines'?

When we were in London and rode the tube during rush hour. Boy can they pack them in.

6. Are you organized when it comes to packing for a trip? Do you make a list weeks in advance or toss items in last minute? Are you a carry-on only sort of packer or do you need an entire suitcase for your shoes?

I'm pretty good at packing for a trip. I used to make extensive lists but then I started travelling more and just remembered what I needed. I do seem to forget something though each time. I tend to overpack especially on business because I need both business wear in the day and comfy clothes at night.

7. What was the last sporting event you attended in person? Did your team win? Did you care?

I bought Dan a small pack of tickets to the OKC Dodgers (our AAA baseball team). We went to opening night in April and it was packed. The Dodgers won and are really doing well this year.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

The rain continues to come down and we are officially the wettest month EVER. Supposedly it should be nice next week. I've enjoyed not being too hot but I can do without the humidity. Even on the days it isn't raining it is so humid that it feels like it is raining.

Hodgepodge

Kickstarting blogging this week.

1. Have you ever had to wear a uniform? If yes, tell us more. Did you love it or hate it?
I had to wear an orange apron over my clothes when I worked at Builders Square. That's the closest I came to a uniform.

2. April 22nd is Earth Day. What is one thing you do personally to be a good steward of planet Earth?
I recycle with our city. They come every two weeks to collect paper, cans, glass, cardboard. It is amazing how much less we have in our normal trash.

3. Brown rice, quinoa, or couscous...your healthy grain of choice? How often are one of the three on your menu at home? Given a choice between white rice, brown rice, wild rice, and fried rice which would you go for?
I like couscous but I don't make it very often. I'm not sure why since it is super easy. Not a big fan of brown rice although some of my frozen lunches now have it. The one time I tried to make quinoa I burned it.

4. In your opinion, who has the best job ever?
Grandmothers.

5. What's a situation in your life currently requiring patience?
The search for a new boss. I have a feeling it is going to take another year but there isn't anything I can do to make it go faster.

6. Do you live your life around days of the week? Explain.
I think when you work you do. Everything revolves around those days and trying to cram in everything else when you are off.

7. In a nod to the A to Z challenge happening around town this month, what 'R word' best describes your April?
Reflective. My baby is graduating college in three weeks. Oh my.

8. Insert your own random thought here.
I thought I had strep throat last week but it turned out to be allergies. I have never had spring allergies. And when I occassionally get them in the fall I never am congested...I just lose my voice. So this time when my throat hurt so bad I thought it was strep. Nope, just those pesky allergies everyone in Oklahoma suffers from.

Hodgepodge Time

1. What's the first image that comes to mind when you hear the word 'spring'? Which phrase best describes the season of spring where you live right now (today)-sprung! almost there, or still waiting?

Oklahoma is the land of weird weather. Last week closed for snow and in two days a beautiful weekend. The trees start budding and then get hit with snow again.

2. Bed, couch, stapler, garage door, computer mouse, recliner, flashlight, door knob...which household item containing springs most needs replacing in your home? Speaking of springs...did you ever own a Slinky?

I don't think anything needs replacing. We just had the garage door fixed so hopefully that was the last thing in a bit. I had a slinky and Whitney had a slinky that was actually made of plastic.

3. March is Women's History Month. Share a favorite quote by a woman.

I'm terrible about quotes. Perhaps Lucy from Charlie Brown "If everyone agreed with me, they'd all be right."

4. What's a question that looms large in your mind right now?

When will I get a new boss. Its been 10 months since our last director passed away unexpectedly and the higher ups are finally getting around to writing a job announcement. Which means it will be another 6-12 months before they hire someone.

5. Are you a sugar freak? By that I mean how much do you love sugar? With all the bad press sugar gets these days, have you made any efforts to reduce the amount of sugar you consume?

I enjoy sweet things but as I get older I eat them less and less. Not because of any bad press but just because my tastes change.

6. Would you rather have less work to do or more work you enjoy doing?

More work that I enjoy doing. It is so much better to be busy than doing less work and bored.

7. Ever been to Texas? Of the top ten Texas tourist attractions which would you most like to see-The Alamo, The San Antonio River Walk, The State Capital, Dallas World Aquarium, Padre Island National Seashore, Houston Space Center, Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Moody Gardens, or Galveston Island?

I lived in Texas and hello...Oklahoma is right next to it. Of those listed I've been to 9 of them. The only one I've missed is Padre Island but I've been to Port Aransas which is just north of Padre. I'm not sure I would really recommend any of them though.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Off to London Thursday! Just a little excited for a real vacation!

Hodgepodge Time

I'm going to get this done early so it will post early on Wednesday and I'll be on top of things!

1. When did you last have to interact, either by phone or in person, with someone in a government run agency? On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate the experience? (10 being fabulous and 1 being pass the Tylenol)

Well since I work with a huge federal grant, it was 10 minutes ago when someone from the government was in my office asking how to get money to someone. I was able to give him good news and the day started out great! So that was a 10. I can't say that all of my experiences are like that though. In fact I think I may have a 5 coming up later today.

2. The current governor of Wisconsin is considering a run for President next time around. Walker attended Marquette University, but never graduated. In terms ofany candidate running for the office of President (not asking here if you agree or disagree with Scott Walker's politics) would the lack of a college degree influence your vote or no? Would that be a factor in your support of any candidate running for public office, even a role less weighty than President?

I don't know if you need to be a college graduate to be President but it probably doesn't hurt. You learn a lot of stuff in college that is beneficial in life.

3. When did you last visit a place or site named for George Washington or Abraham Lincoln, and what was that place or site?

All of the elementary schools in town are named for President's and Whitney went to Washington Elementary. However I've been other places since the last time I was there. I usually see the Washington and Lincoln monuments when I'm in DC which will be next month.

4. February 16th was President's Day in the US, but did you know it was also National Almond Day? I didn't think so : ) Do you like almonds? If so, what's a food/dish/recipe you enjoy that contains almonds?

I'm not an almond fan. So I usually skip those dishes.

5.The television program Saturday Night Live celebrated it's 40th anniversary this past weekend. Were/are you a fan of the show? If so what has been your favorite (or one of your favorite) skits, sayings, or characters that came out of the program?

I wrote about the SNL anniversary show Monday. I remember watching in the 80's and early 90's. And then life got in the way and who wants to stay up that late when you have a little one. But there are so many good skits that came out of it. One of my favorites is Buckwheat is dead.

6. Anything purple within ten feet of you? What is it?

The closest purple thing to me is a box of girl scout cookies. The Samoas box is purple.

7. Back in December I asked you to submit a question for a future HP as part of a giveaway I was hosting. I grabbed this one from those entries, submitted by Zoanna who blogs over at Penchant for Pens. Thanks Zoanna!

She asks, "How often do you make your bed, and how do you like to make it-pull the covers all the way up over the pillows, tuck the covers in around the pillows, or place all the pillows on top of the covers?"

I don't make the bed mainly because my husband is still in it when I get up. On the weekends I try and make it but I'm not very good at it.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I love seeing all the snow pictures knowing that we don't have that weather. Keep posting them friends!

Happy Valentine's Hodgepodge Day

1. Have you ever written a love letter? Have you written one recently? Had one written to you? Did you keep it?
Back when I was younger you had to write letters. Because long distance phone calls were expensive. And there was no email. So yes I wrote them then.

2. What's a movie that ends in a way you especially love?
Sleepless in Seattle because you get to come up with your own happily ever after ending.

3. Something that makes your heart sing? And for those of you who are parents, I mean something besides your children that makes your heart sing?
The dog every morning because she is so excited to be fed. Really if I had that amount of energy in the morning I could get a lot done.

4. What's the last event you had to attend, phone call you had to make, routine task you needed to complete, or meal you had to prepare, that you did do, but only half-heartedly?
Dusting. I only half do it anytime because I dislike it.

5. Tuna fish salad-yay or blech? If you said yay, how do you like your tuna salad prepared? Hey, this is the Hodgepodge, right?
I like tuna fish. Light amount of mayonaise and some dill relish. So it is pretty thick. Put it on some crackers and a delicious lunch.

6. What's something you 'know by heart'?
Account numbers. I run about 50 accounts at work and can spout them off without looking at a list. I also know my visa number and the code on the back. I'm not sure if that is good.

7. In the spirit of Valentine's Day, what two or three word phrase would you write on a conversation heart for someone you love? That someone could be a spouse, child, parent, cousin, bestie...anyone at all whom you love.
Together Forever

8. Insert your own random thought here.
Just booked a spring break trip for Whitney's last one. And it is a doozy. We are going to London for a week. Yikes. One month from now.

Hodgepodge Today

1. When did someone last suggest you 'chill out'? Or, when did you last tell someone (or want to tell someone) to 'chill out'? Or, when did you last tell yourself to 'chill out'?
I'm sure I've told myself to chill out multiple times this week. Way too much work stress going on.

2. What most recently caused your heart to melt?
I saw an advance copy of the Budweiser commercial for the Super Bowl. Puppy and Clydesdales equal heart melting. Have tissue ready people.

3. "An adventure is only an inconvenience rightly considered. An inconvenience is only an adventure wrongly considered." G.K. Chesterton

Your thoughts? When did you last experience either an adventure or an inconvenience? How did you see it at first, as an adventure or an inconvenience? Does it feel the same in hindsight?

Every day is an adventure at work but I doubt that's what he was talking about.

4. A Wendy's Frosty, root beer in a frosty mug, or a frosted chocolate cupcake...of these three, which one is your favorite 'frosty' treat?

Frosted chocolate cupcake please.

5. Would you say your life so far this year has been more like a circus or a symphony? Explain why.

A circus but looking forward to symphony days.

6. Since it's a 'snow day' here, what's your favorite song containing the word 'white'?

White Wedding by Billy Idol. I am a child of the 80's.

7. If you had to leave the city you currently live in, what would you find the hardest to leave behind?

Familiarity. I've lived in our house for 22 years and I so used to everything.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I passed on the gym last night to go to a wine tasting. While I'm sure my body could have used the workout, my mind enjoyed the wine.

Hodgepodge - #1 for 2015

Look, I'm actually participating in the hodgepodge again. If she can do all this while recovering from a cold and a wedding, I can participate.

1. What's your best piece of advice for a newly married couple? I'm asking for a friend.
Communication is key to keeping the marriage long lasting. Don't assume something about your partner...talk about it.

2. Before we're too far into the new year I wanted to post a question Teresa submitted during the December giveaway. Teresa blogs over at Being Refined As Silver, so everyone go say hi.

Teresa asks, "What were you doing on December 31st, 1999?"and "Did you or your family make preparations for Y2K?"

We were watching the OU bowl game (which we won) and then woke up Whitney to say Happy New Year.

3. According to Global Language Monitor, the most used word of 2014 isn't a word. It's the heart emoji. Huh? How can something that's not a word be the most used word, but I digress. What do you think was your most used word in 2014?

An emoji is not a word so that isn't right. I think my most used word was NO. As in no I can't do that or no I don't have time for that.

4. Speaking of words, it's that time again. Time for Lake Superior University to present a list of words they'd like to see banished (for over-use, mis-use, and general uselessness) in 2015. You can read more about the decision making process here, but this year's top vote getters are-

bae (before anyone else), polar vortex, hack, skill set, swag, foodie, curate/curated, friend-raising, enhanced interrogation, cra-cra (as in crazy), takeaway, and -nation (a suffering sports suffix).

Which of these words/phrases would you most like to see banished from everyday speech and why? Is there a word not on the list you'd like to add?

I haven't even heard of a couple of those. But working with weather people I'd say polar vortex should be banned. And I remember that selfie was on the list the year before but it still needs to be banned now.

5. January is National Hot Tea month? Are you a fan? Do you like flavored teas? How do you take your tea? Have a favorite cup or teapot? How many cups of tea do you consume in a given day?

I always think the idea of hot tea is better than the actual drink. I always get loose tea from China as a gift from my visitors and I never like it. I do drink hot tea when I have a cold with honey in it though.

6. Whatever happened to________________________________?

The Sun. I think this is the grayest winter ever.

7. What is one book on your must-read list this winter?

I don't have a must read...just an always read a book.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

We are back to empty nesters. We enjoyed having Whitney home for her last Christmas break from school but I know she is happy to be back at school for her last semester.

Merry Christmas Hodgepodge

I can't believe Joyce had time to write this week's questions. Her daughter is getting married in less than three weeks and Christmas is next week. Super impressed.


1. Time magazine has selected The Ebola Fighters as their person of the year for 2014. Do you agree, and if so who would you say is a close second? If you disagree with their choice, who do you think should have been chosen?

Is it wrong of me to think that Time Magazine is from a by-gone era and it really doesn't matter what they write about? Its like they put a bunch of choices into a hat and draw one out.

2. This question comes to you courtesy of Susan who blogs over at Stew Mama Says. She knows we have a wedding happening any minute now, and she asks, 'What's your favorite-something old? something new? something borrowed? something blue in your home? Be sure you hop over and say hi to Susan today!

Something old - a mantle clock
Something new - my new dining room table
Something borrowed - I really don't borrow anything
Something blue - My Snow Miser bobblehead

3. Fudge-yay or nay? Your favorite flavor? Do you make it yourself? With nuts or without?

I'm not a fudge fan. It is always too sweet for me.

4. December 17th is Wright Brothers Day, commemorating the first successful flights made by Orville and Wilbur Wright in 1903 in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. How old were you when you made your first flight? Do you like to fly? Have you ever been to Kitty Hawk or other parts of the North Carolina Outer Banks?

I believe the first time I flew was when I was 13 and moving from Wisconsin to Florida. I've flown a whole lot more since then. I really like to fly and am an expert at navigating an airport by myself. Last flight was delayed in San Diego and I just sat at a bar and ended up talking to someone else who had been at my conference. It didn't bother me at all to be delayed (not really anything I could do about it). I've never been to the Outer Banks although I would like to some day.

5. Do the people in your family tend to follow a particular career path, and if so what's the path?

There is not a pattern of career path in my family. And Whitney isn't going into any field that either Dan or myself are in.

6. What is one thing you absolutely, positively must accomplish today?

Go grocery shopping. I'm out of stuff for lunches and I really don't want to eat out the next two days.

7. This Christmas I hope___________________________________.

To enjoy the season at a relaxed pace.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Whitney comes home tomorrow for winter break. She'll be home for about three weeks before she starts her last semester of college!

Thanksgiving Hodgepodge

Made it to answer Joyce's questions this week. I give thanks that every week she comes up with them and lets us play along.

1. Besides U.S. Thanksgiving, it's also National Game and Puzzle Week...what game have you played most recently, and who were you with? Have you worked a puzzle of any kind in the past week?

This is the puzzle I finished this weekend. I play Frozen on my ipad all the time (rather obsessively).

2. What is one place you were thankful for this year?
Maui. You can't argue with sunsets like these.

3. Take a nap, watch football, go for an after dinner walk, or hit the stores...which ONE is on your must-do list for Thanksgiving day? For those of you playing along who aren't in the US, answer as it relates to any big holiday meal.

I'm going for a before dinner walk by doing a 5K Thanksgiving morning.

4. Besides Thanksgiving, what's your favorite home cooked meal?

Ham with broccoli and scalloped potatoes.

5. What product from an infomercial would you most like to own?

Well I did own a topsy turvy tomato grower. It worked for awhile until I overwatered it. But it sure was heavy with all the dirt in it. You would never be able to just hang it from any overhang like in the infomercial.

6. Christmas shopping? Have you begun? Finished? Will you shop on Black Friday? How do you feel about stores opening on Thanksgiving Day? What percentage of your Christmas shopping is done online?

I've started all online. I've also bough the foster kids gifts that we adopt every year by going to a store. I avoid the Black Friday shopping or anything similar to it. Too many people. There is no need to open early because sales start way earlier than Thanksgiving now. I think it is just a sport to some people.

7. What are you most grateful for that adds beauty to your everyday life?

My hair. That sounds funny but coming from a family where the women have thinning hair when they get to be my age I don't take my full head for granted.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I hope to have all my decorating done by being off work for four days. I won't have any time for fun stuff for awhile so I must get it done.

A Cold Hodgepodge

Joyce was off last week moving her daughter back home before she goes and gets married and moves all the way across the country. She deserved a break. But she came back this week with more questions.

1. We celebrate Veteran's Day in the US of A on November 11th. When did you last interact with a member of the armed forces (either currently serving or retired)? Have you ever written a letter to a soldier, bought a meal or coffee for a solider, said an unprompted thank you to a soldier you encountered out and about somewhere? If you're not in the US, comment on a similar holiday in your own country.

I work with a few retired veterans but I never think of them that way. I appreciate what they've done for our country but I've never done anything like those listed.

2. You can have fifty pounds of anything at all (except money)...what would you choose?

I won a 10 pound chocolate bar once and that was way too much chocolate. Maybe 50 pounds of wine? I wouldn't need to buy any wine for at least a year.

3. When did you last receive an invitation in the 'real' mail? What was it for and did you attend? When it comes to RSVP-ing, are you an 'early responder' or a 'last minute, barely-under-the-wire' kind of guest?

I got a wedding invitation this summer. I don't like to wait until the last minute to RSVP. I should be able to make up my mind quickly if I can go to something or not.

4. What's something you really don't like to waste?

I hate to waste anything I paid for. LOL

5. Cheers, Friends, MASH, Seinfeld...of the ones listed, your favorite long-running sitcom?

Of those I was a huge MASH fan. It was a family event to watch it. I remember the final episode still (the highest rated single show ever). You know...before you could DVR it and watch on your own schedule.

6. What decision are you glad you made?

Going back and getting my masters degree. It definitely has propelled by career and helped expand my mind.

7. In this month of 'Thanksgiving' what is one thing that's different today than it was a year ago that you're grateful for?

I'm thankful that there is only one more time to pay tuition! Whitney's last semester starts next January and then she'll be a college graduate.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I'm joining up with Rebecca Jo on her winter reading challenge. I probably read 4-5 books a week on my kindle app so this will be great. Go check it out!

Hodgepodge

I'm going to get to do a hodgepodge this week. It's almost like I've forgotten how to join.

1. Joyce's hubs spent last weekend pheasant hunting. Are there hunters in your family? If so, what do they hunt? Which of the following have you tasted-pheasant, rabbit, venison, duck, goose? Which of those would you most like to taste, or be mostwilling to taste?

Vegetarians keep calm and Hodgepodge on.

No hunters in the family and I'm glad. I've had venison and duck and haven't cared for either of them. I don't think I want to try anything else.

2. What high spot have you visited that gave you a wonderful 'bird's eye view' of something below?

We made it halfway up the volcano on Maui and looked down towards our condo. Puts things in perspective.

3. Do you have any birds in your home? These could be either real live pets or decorative, as in bird prints, knickknacks, fabric or pottery.

I used to have some ducks that were my fathers that I got when he passed away. I think they are in the attic now. I have a bird book if that counts.

4. Tell about a time you 'killed two birds with one stone'?

Vacation and work trip all in one...Hawaii

5. Your favorite song with a bird in it's title?

I had to look up lists of songs with birds in the title to figure this out. Best I can do is Fly Like an Eagle by Seal.

6. What most recently gave you goose bumps?

Wow, I haven't had any lately. Maybe last time I got really cold for no reason?

7. Halloween is this Friday...any plans? Did you trick or treat as a child? Carve pumpkins? Share your most memorable costume.

One time (I think 3rd or 4th grade) my mom made me a Statue of Liberty costume out of gray trash bags. It was so awesome. And it was the one year our little town didn't have the Halloween costume parade. Trick or treat is for elementary age kids or younger. I'm pretty adamant about that. I never liked touching the inside of a pumpkin. So we really didn't do a lot for Halloween as Whitney grew up. I reused costumes for a few years and we attempted to carve.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

We had suitcase Sunday at church. Basically we collected new and gently used small suitcases for foster kids in the state of Oklahoma.

This cage was full after the last service. I don't know how many they collected but I hope that all kids are able to get one. They also had different organizations that help out foster kids there. And a touching video from a couple of church members who do both foster kids and have adopted kids out of foster care.

Hodgepodge - Back to Normal

I'm going to make it to Joyce's party today! Finally a little back to normal for me.




1. What's your favorite time of day? Why?

I like around 10am-noon. This is my most productive time of the day. I'm awake, everyone seems happy, and it means that lunch is just around the corner.

2. Waffle iron, toaster, coffee maker, mixer, blender...which small appliance would you say most needs replacing in your house?

I just got a new mixer so that definitely isn't it. I don't own a coffee maker or blender. My waffle iron and toaster don't get much use. So I really don't need any of them. I could use some new silverware though.

3. It's National Grouch Day (October 15)...what's something that makes you feel grouchy?

People who don't return my emails or phone calls.

4. Ever been to Canada? Is that a country you'd like to visit? According to Trip Advisor, the top ten best destinations in Canada are-Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, Victoria, Calgary, Niagara on the Lake, Niagara Falls, Whistler, and Halifax. Which city would you most like to see?

I've been to Canada several times and have enjoyed it. From this list I've been to Vancouver, Quebec City, Victoria, and Whistler. That's pretty good for being from Oklahoma. I enjoyed all of them for different reasons. Quebec City (especially the old town) was like being in Europe so I would highly recommend that. I would like to see Niagara Falls (either side).

5. What was your favorite food (or one of your favorites) when you were a child? Is that still a favorite?

Ham and watergate salad. Those were always special meals. And I still like them and make them for special meals.

6. Do you cry easily?

Depends on the situation but as I get older I cry much easier.

7. Have you started your (gasp!) Christmas shopping? If so when, and how much? If not, when will you even begin thinking about it?

No shopping and I haven't even thought of ideas although Dan has a list of options. I went to Lowe's Sunday and I couldn't believe all the Christmas decorations they had out. Right behind the Halloween ones. That was quite a sight.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Just a hint of the Hawaii recap here. I still need to get my pictures on this computer so I can blog with them.

Sunset from our condo on Maui. I could definitely get used to this every night.

Happy Fall Hodgepodge!

Joyce has written quite a few fall questions to celebrate the start of fall. Yippee!

1. It's fall. Y'all. My favorite season of the year! What's something you love to do this time of year that makes you feel it's officially fall? And unrelated to that, do you ever say-'y'all'?
Turning off the air conditioner and opening the windows at night. Then I know it is fall.

And I live in Oklahoma...of course I say y'all. Duh.

2. When did you last have a falling out with someone? Has it been resolved?

Wow, I've had lots of falling outs. I'll pick one that has been resolved. We have since found out that the problem did not lie within us but outside of our control. Which I guess makes the relationship all the better. (Yes pretty non-specific here but that's the best I can do).

3. A song you love with the word 'fall' in it's title?

I chose Autumn instead of Fall in the title.

Autumn Leaves by Eva Cassidy. Gives me chills every time.

4. What's something you've recently let 'fall by the wayside?'

Cutting out sweets. Somehow with all the fall stuff out there I've gone a little crazy buying cookie dough from neighbor fundraising and autumn M&M's. Oh my.

5. When did you last attend an event, read a book, watch a movie, try a new recipe, or visit a shop-town-tourist attraction that fell short of your expectations? In what way?

Trying new recipes. I haven't had a good new one in a long time.
Also I haven't liked several movies that everyone raves about. Silver Linings Playbook and American Hustle just did not do anything for me.

6. Describe a time you said or thought, 'The apple doesn't fall far from the tree."

I don't think I use that saying at all. But all you have to do is look at Whitney and know the apple doesn't fall from our tree.

7. Was today better than yesterday? Why or why not?

Today is better than yesterday because I'm one day closer to my vacation!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

The travel bug is about to hit us. Three days until we leave for Hawaii! Whitney leaves for New York City in less than two weeks. And my mom is going on a vacation as soon as we get back. I even have another trip to San Diego planned less than two weeks after I get back from Hawaii. 

Hodgepodge

Joyce is celebrating her birthday and the 190th edition of Hodgepodge. I know I've been doing this for a few years but not 190 of them. Cudos to her.

1. I'm celebrating a birthday this week so a question relating to aging feels appropriate. Douglas MacArthur is quoted as saying, 'You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubt; as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear; as young as your hope, as old as your despair." Would you agree? If not why not?

I'm never any good at these quote things. I think you are as old or young as you want to be.

2. What remarkable feat, interesting piece of trivia, or historical event occurred on your birth day and month? Not necessarily in your birthyear, just the same date/same month.

On my birthday, women in the United States got the right to vote (the 19th amendment was ratified).

3. Describe a time or circumstance where you wanted to 'have your cake and eat it too.'

Of course on my birthday. I ate whatever I want...including cake. The next day I was really full.

4. What's something you do that makes you feel young? Something that makes you feel old?

I feel young whenever someone tells me that I don't look my age (I really don't!). I feel old every start of a school year when the college freshmen look younger and younger.

5. When did you last do something that was 'a piece of cake'?

I made cookies last night. All I did was take them out of the package and put them on a cookie sheet. Piece of cake!

6. Beef, wine, and cheese all improve with age. What's something else you'd add to that list? (not necessarily food or beverage)

Intelligence (or at least we can always hope it does).

7. If I were to have a giveaway when we hit Volume 200, what should I give away? By my calculations we'll hit Volume 200 on November 26th, the day before Thanksgiving, which means whoever wins would have whatever it is in time for Christmas.

If you did something, it should be a hodgepodge of items.  Since this is the hodgepodge of course!

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I believe it is time to start making lists of what to take on my trip. It's only 10 days from today! (Yes I'm a little excited)

Hodgepodge

So I missed out on last week's questions. And then I only blogged once. I say this everytime but hoping this gets me going again.

1. On Thursday we pause to remember a dark day in history-9/11. Will you mark it in some special way?
Nope. To me the OKC bombing is much closer to my heart since it was less than 30 miles away.

2. Do you ever/still...listen to an actual radio? Watch a videotape (VCR)? Look up a number in a phonebook? Refer to a paper map while traveling? Set an alarm on an alarm clock as opposed to your phone?

I listen to my radio in the car. We pulled out the boombox (yes we still have one) a couple of weeks ago to listen to the OU football game since it was only radio or pay per view. We have lots of videotapes of home movies but haven't converted them yet to DVDs. Of course we don't have a player anymore but someday we'll get it worked out. Paper maps are great and always an alarm clock. The last two mostly because we just got smartphones and haven't figure out how to do all that stuff on them.

3. Is it ever a good idea to discuss religion or politics with people you don't know?

Never discuss religion or politics with anyone. And I mean anyone.

4. What's a dish you haven't eaten all summer, but come September find yourself craving? Have you made it yet this month?

Peanuts and candy corn mixed together. I was at the store and saw all the Halloween candy and got to craving it. I successfully stopped myself from buying some now but I doubt that will last.

5. What's something you know nothing about?

Greek and Roman Mythology. Never studied it and just can't get into it.

6. September is Classical Music Month. Do you like classical music? If so, what's your favorite piece?

Classical music is great. So much of popular music is built on it without people knowing. We really have enjoyed listening to DeBussy lately.

7. What's the oldest thing you own?

I have a mantle clock that my dad restored and left me. It is probably from the 1890's.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I'm so excited for Whitney. She got selected by her college to attend the World Business Forum in New York City next month. The business school takes a few students to go to it. It is two days of great speakers and best of all it doesn't cost her anything. Tickets to the event are $2500 each. WOW! What a great opportunity for her. Have I told you how much I love her going to a small school?

Hodgepodge

Better late in the day than never to join Joyce with this week's hodgepodge questions.

1. As August draws to a close, share what's been your favorite weekend of the entire summer?

I hate to say it but I really don't have any exciting weekends from the summer. We didn't do a vacation or anything exciting.

2. Labor Day is marked in the US of A on Monday, September 1st. What paying job have you held that you've loved the most? Liked the least?

Love the most is my current job. Liked the least would be when I was a data entry operator entering oil and gas records into a computer...back when they only were green screens.

3. Does the new school year start before or after Labor Day where you live? When do you think it should begin? There is much discussion now about older students having later start times to their school day...your thoughts?

School starts in August here. I think that is fine. Our high school starts at 9 but you can take "zero" hour and get an extra course in early. I don't think it should start any later than that.

4. What's something you've worked at recently that could be deemed a 'labor of love'?

Not sure I have an answer to this one.

5.Which of the following work idioms can you most relate to right now...'A woman's work is never done.', 'All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.' 'Many hands make light work.'

All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Too much work on my part and not enough fun.

6. Crab or lobster or thanks, but no thanks? Favorite way to have your choice prepared?

Like both but I would choose lobster. Lobster ravioli is really tasty.

7. Albert Einstein is quoted as saying, 'Three rules of work: Out of clutter find simplicity; From discord find harmony; In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.' Which of the three do you consider to be the most important? Share one of your own 'rules of work'.

In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity. It allows you to think outside the box.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Yesterday was my birthday. I had work meetings in the morning but in the afternoon I spent time shopping all by myself. I added to the swimsuit I bought over the weekend a new pair of shorts and a pair of flip flops for the Hawaii trip that is now one month away. I'd better start working on my packing lists!

Hodgepodge

Joyce is taking next week off so I thought I had better get busy and answer this week's questions.

1. The best part of waking up is____________________________________.

Starting each day with a fresh outlook. Don't bring yesterday's troubles with you today.

2. Given a choice, which animal interaction would you most like to experience (or for those non-adventurers...which would you dislike the least?)- Swim with the dolphins at one of several locations in the Florida Keys, a lion encounter ten minutes from Victoria Falls (Africa), or a day at a remote base camp high in the Big Sur wilderness via the Ventana Wildlife Society helping track California condors?

Swimming with dolphins. It is on my bucket list I wrote about in April.

3. What is something you fear about 'old age'? What is something you look forward to?

I fear having my body fall apart on me. I look forward to traveling when I retire.

4. Hot sauce...are you a fan? If you answered yes, what's something you make/eat that must have hot sauce? On a scale of 1-10 how hot is too hot?

I like hot sauce but only when it is used to cook with. We used to get a killer ceaser salad with a hot sauce dressing.

5. It's been said that children learn what they live. What do you think children learn at your house?

Independence.

6. What's your favorite movie with a number in it's title?

It Happened One Night

7. Saturday (August 16th) is National Tell a Joke Day...share one here.

I've got nothing. I am a terrible joke teller.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

Today is my husband's 48th birthday. So we are the same age for 13 days. He says I'm older but we have the same number of years so I don't think so for these 13 days.